With today's official launch of the Mobile Dental Clinic (MDC), children 17 years of age and under will have better access to free dental care in Toronto.

"I can't emphasize enough the impact dental health has on overall health including nutrition, speech, learning, employment and self-esteem," said Dr. David McKeown, Toronto's Medical Officer of Health. "By bringing the clinic directly to the client we are hoping to reach our most vulnerable residents, reduce health inequities and improve the health of our whole population."

Toronto's Mobile Dental Clinic is fully funded by the Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care and is one component of the Healthy Smiles Ontario (HSO) program. Launched in October 2010, this program provides free dental services to children and youth including regular check-ups, x-rays, fillings and more, to promote and maintain good oral health. Toronto is one of five Ontario public health units that received funding for a MDC.

“As of October this year, 32,900 children have received dental care thanks to the Healthy Smiles Ontario program, fulfilling another commitment under the Poverty Reduction Strategy,” said Deb Matthews, Minister of Health and Long-Term Care. “The mobile dental clinic will help increase accessibility to dental care for eligible children 17 years of age and under. These services will not only provide treatment and preventative care - they also reinforce the importance of maintaining good oral health.”

The Mobile Dental Clinic is a 40-foot customized coach that is fully accessible and is equipped with two dental stations, a sterilization centre and a reception area. The clinic is staffed by a dentist, registered dental hygienist and a certified dental assistant.

The bus will travel throughout Toronto visiting neighbourhoods and community agencies Monday to Friday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. to provide free dental care to those who meet eligibility requirements.

More information about the HSO program is available at www.health.gov.on.ca/en/public/programs/dental/
More information on Toronto Public Health’s dental services is available athttp://www.toronto.ca/health/

Toronto is Canada's largest city and sixth largest government, and home to a diverse population of about 2.7 million people. Toronto's government is dedicated to delivering customer service excellence, creating a transparent and accountable government, reducing the size and cost of government and building a transportation city. For information on non-emergency City services and programs, Toronto residents, businesses and visitors can dial 311, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.